Drivers have been urged to follow an unusual tip that can help them avoid getting stuck in the snow (Image: Getty)
A motoring expert has shared an unconventional piece of advice that if they get .
With the continuing to issue for ice and in parts of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and the north of England, drivers are finding it increasingly difficult to traverse some roads.
To prevent getting stuck in the snow, Graham Conway from recommended that drivers let out some pressure from their .
He explained: “We’ve seen anecdotal evidence where, for example, a motorist was travelling to the Lake District to spend time with his family over Christmas. The holiday cottage was at the bottom of a valley, with steep roads to access the property on each side.
“The only way this particular motorist could extricate himself and his family from the snow-covered valley was to let around half of the air out of his tyres before taking a run-up at the hill, and eventually cresting the summit to safety.”
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By letting some air out of the tyres, drivers can increase the amount of traction their car has (Image: Getty)
Whilst motorists typically need to top up their tyre pressures to stay safe in normal driving conditions, letting out air can actually be particularly helpful in the snow.
By doing this, drivers are able to increase the amount of traction they have with the surface, giving them better grip on hilly or slippery surface.
When taking advantage of this trick, it is vital that motorists avoid travelling at high speeds or long distances, which can result in the tyres heating up and causing a blow-out.
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Nevertheless, to use the trick, drivers must have a way of re-inflating their tyres in their car (Image: Getty)
Graham also suggested that drivers only use this trick if they have a way to inflate the tyres to hand, otherwise they may find themselves stranded.
He warned: “However, you should only attempt this if you are carrying a portable tyre inflator or air compressor, so that you’re able to return the tyres to the correct pressure as soon as it is safe to do so.
“Attempting to continue a journey for a prolonged period of time with incorrect tyre pressures can be extremely dangerous, potentially even leading to complete blow-outs. Letting air from your tyres is recommended in emergency situations only.”
In most cases, drivers should regularly check how much air is inside their vehicles tyres by using an accurate pressure gauge when the vehicle has been parked for more than 30 minutes.
Changes in temperature can cause pressure to contract, meaning air is typically lost at a quicker rate over winter. As a result, it is vital that drivers regularly check and top up their tyres where necessary.
Keeping a vehicle’s tyres at the otimum level can help drivers reduce the risk of skidding and understeer when cornering whilst improving stopping distances and fuel economy.